Game call assembly

ABSTRACT

A game call assembly for attracting wild game comprises a game call configured for emitting a call when inverted. A motor when energized rotates a shaft. The game call is coupled to the shaft. A switch selectively electrically connects a power source to the motor. The game call assembly is configured for being mounted to a weapon, and also functions as a stabilizer.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a game call assembly that emits sound for attracting wildlife.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Numerous devices are known in the relevant art for use by hunters and others, such as photographers, for producing game sounds intended to be heard by wild game for the purpose of attracting the wild game to the source of the game sound. Such devices are collectively known as game calls and are available in various configurations. Some game calls, for example, are actuated by air and include a reed or other sound-producing member. In order to issue a call, a hunter must blow or otherwise force air into and/or through such an air-actuated game call device. Other types of calls may, for example, require a hunter to strike an object against the calling device or to strike the calling device against an object. Each of these prior art calls has certain disadvantageous features and/or aspects.

Producing a realistic game call by blowing air through an air-actuated or reed-type game call device is an art, and is not a particularly repeatable process. Thus, since the amount and velocity of air traveling through a reed-type game call device determines at least in part the characteristics and sound level of the call, a user must be well practiced in order to produce calls having realistic characteristics, such as the proper duration and sound level. The volume produced by such calls can vary widely and from user to user, and an excited hunter may inadvertently produce a call that is too loud or not loud enough. Too loud of a call may scare away the game the call was intended to attract. A call that requires one or more hands to actuate may result in a hunter or photographer missing a rare opportunity to photograph or take aim at the attracted game as a result of having to move his or her hands from the game call to the camera or weapon. Further, a user is typically forced to keep track of where the call device is kept, such as, for example, in which pocket, and may fumble and/or drop the call device when retrieving it for use.

Some game call devices have been developed that address, to a certain extent, the above-mentioned disadvantageous characteristics. Some call devices have been developed that do not require a user to hold the device and/or actuate the device by hand. For example, some air-actuated calls are configured for having a mouthpiece attached or otherwise held proximate to or within the mouth of a user, and thus do not require a user to raise and hold the call up to his or her mouth by hand. However, such calls still require the user to force air through the device and thus retain the above-described associated disadvantages. Other calls have been developed which do not require a user to force air through the device and, therefore, produce more repeatable and realistic calls. For example, electronic calls have been developed which produce the call via electronic and/or amplified means. However, many states have by law declared the use of such electronic and/or amplified call devices illegal, particularly when used by hunters.

Therefore, what is needed in the art is a game call device which does not require handling and/or hand actuation by a user.

Furthermore, what is needed in the art is a game call device which is configured for being readily available to a user.

Moreover, what is needed in the art is a game call device which produces calls at consistent and/or repeatable sound levels but which is not an amplified call device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a game call assembly for attracting wild animals and game.

The present invention comprises, in one form thereof, a game call configured for emitting a call when inverted. The game call is coupled to the shaft of a motor. A switch selectively electrically connects a power source to the motor thereby energizing the motor, rotating the shaft, and inverting the game call. The game call assembly is configured for being mounted to a weapon, and also functions as a stabilizer.

An advantage of the present invention is that a user can actuate the game call without moving from a ready-to-fire position.

A further advantage of the present invention is that the call is issued at a relatively consistent sound level.

A still further advantage of the present invention is that it is not an amplified call and thus does not run afoul of laws precluding the use of such amplified calls.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become apparent and be better understood by reference to the following description of one embodiment of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of one embodiment of a game call assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a game call assembly of the present invention; and

FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C are perspective views of the game call assembly of FIGS. 1 and 2 mounted to an archery bow, cross bow, and rifle, respectively.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate one preferred embodiment of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to FIG. 1, one embodiment of a game call assembly of the present invention is shown. Game call assembly 10 includes housing 12, power source 14, motor 16, switch 18, controller 20, and game call 22.

Housing 12 is a compact generally cylindrical housing that defines an interior space (not referenced) in which power source 14, motor 16 and controller 20 are disposed. The interior of housing 12 is preferably sealed against intrusion by the elements and constructed of a material that is relatively lightweight yet durable. Housing 12 also encloses, receives, or has affixed thereto one or more weights or weighted sections which, as will be more particularly described hereinafter, enable game call assembly 10 to additionally function as a stabilizing element.

Still referring to FIG. 1, housing 12 includes a first housing feature 26, such as, for example, a threaded stud, configured for engaging either of: 1) a first weighted-section feature 28, such as, for example, a threaded bore, of one or more weighted sections 30; or 2) a similar accessory-mounting feature of a second object, such as, for example, a weapon, (neither of which are shown in FIG. 1) as is more particularly described hereinafter. The weighted sections 30 further include a second weighted-section feature 32, such as, for example, a threaded stud, configured for engaging a first weighted-section feature 28 of another weighted section 30 or the accessory-mounting feature of a weapon.

Power source 14, such as, for example, a conventional battery, provides power to controller 20 and motor 16. Motor 16 is, preferably, an electrical motor, such as, for example, a direct current motor, stepper motor, or other similar motor, which when energized is configured to rotate shaft 34 thereof in a predetermined direction. Switch 18 is a conventional switch that actuates, via controller 20, motor 16. Switch 18 is physically positioned in a location that allows convenient actuation and requires minimum movement by a user, as will be more particularly explained hereinafter.

Controller 20 controls the amount or degree to which shaft 34 is rotated for each actuation of switch 18. Thus, for each actuation of switch 18 shaft 34 is rotated a predetermined amount or number of degrees, such as, for example, 180 degrees (one-hundred eighty degrees). Controller 20 is, for example, an electronic controller that issues to motor 16 an electrical signal or pulse having a fixed duration or a predetermined number of pulses that cause shaft 34 to rotate by the predetermined amount or degree. Such controllers are well known in the art. Controller 20 can be alternately configured, such as, for example, as a simple mechanical resettable stop or other suitable means that limits rotation of shaft 34.

Game call 22 is similar to an estrus or can-type bleat call or other similar call. The bleat mimics a female deer in heat. Bow hunters use this device to stop a male deer. Often a bow hunter comes upon a make deer that is moving. When a male deer hears the bleat of the deer call, he often stops moving to investigate the sound. Other audible calls are used to attract different game. For example, a coyote is often attracted by a call that mimics a rabbit in distress. Wild turkeys are attracted by artificial mating calls. Conventional estrus-type calls emit a call when a hole in the bottom thereof is plugged, typically by a user covering the hole with a finger, and the can is inverted or turned end-to-end by the user. Game call 22 is modified, relative to a conventional estrus or can-type bleat call, so as to not have a bottom hole or with any bottom hole being either permanently sealed or selectively sealed by a sealing member when ready for use (to thereby avoid inadvertent calls). Game call 22 includes a mounting feature 36, such as, for example, a threaded socket integral with and/or affixed thereto, configured to attach to shaft 34.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a second embodiment of a game call assembly of the present invention is shown. Game call assembly 100 includes housing 112 having a first housing feature 126, such as, for example, a threaded stud, configured for engaging a similar feature of a second object, such as, for example, a weapon, (not shown in FIG. 2) as is more particularly described hereinafter. Housing 112 further includes weight-receiving housing features 128, such as, for example, molded plastic slots or receptacles, for securely receiving and removably retaining weights or weight sections 130. Weight-receiving housing features 128 are configured to hold weight sections 130 in a substantially stationary manner, thereby substantially reducing if not eliminating noise-producing movement or rattling of weight sections 130 when disposed within weight-receiving housing features 128. Optionally, weight-receiving housing features 128 are lined with a gasket-type member 140, such as, for example, a rubber or felt material.

Referring now generally to FIGS. 3A-3C, game call assembly 10 is shown affixed to various weapons to function as a game call assembly and, optionally, a stabilizer. Stabilizers are used on weapons, particularly by archers on their bows, and are intended to reduce torque and shock. Stabilizers also help to level out the weapon and hold the weapon steady while aiming, and may reduce noise produced by the weapon.

Referring now to FIG. 3A, game call assembly 10 is shown mounted and/or affixed to an archery bow 140 to thereby form weapon assembly 300. More particularly, game call device 22 is affixed to housing 12 via the engagement of shaft 34 of motor 16 with mounting feature 36 of game call device 22. One or more weighted sections 30 (only one shown in FIG. 3A) are coupled to housing 12 via the engagement of first housing feature 26 and first weighted-section feature 28.

Switch 18 is preferably mounted proximate the ready-to-fire hand position of the user of bow 140, cross bow 150 and/or firearm 160 such that the user can actuate switch 18 without moving his or her hand from that position. Preferably, switch 18 is a low-profile switch, such as, for example, a membrane or micro switch. Wires 44 that electrically connect switch 18 between power source 14 and motor 16 are routed along and periodically affixed to structural members of bow 40.

FIGS. 3B and 3C show game call assembly 10 and/or 100 mounted and/or installed, in a substantially similar manner to that descried above in regard to bow 140, to cross bow 150 and firearm 160 to form weapon assemblies 400 and 500, respectively. For the cross bow 400 and the rifle 500, a mounting bracket 44 clips or otherwise attaches to the stock 155 a, 155 b of the cross bow or the rifle, respectively. The bracket 44 is disposed at a location convenient for the hunter to operate the switch 18. The bracket has a threaded receiver bore (not shown) that receives the threaded stud on the end of the call apparatus. The bracket may be positioned anywhere along the length of the stock, preferably at a location where the switch 18 can be conveniently actuated with the user's index finger on the user's hand that supports the stock 155 a, 155 b. Hunting rifle 500 has a similar bracket 44 for mounting the call on the stock 155 b below the barrel 160.

It should be particularly noted that in weapon assemblies 400 and 500 shaft 34 of game call assembly 10 is oriented generally parallel to a central axis (not shown) thereof, so that it maintains the same relative orientation as the the call on the weapon assembly 300, to thereby orient game call device 22 for proper operation. The particular game call requires such orientation, but those skilled in the art understand that other embodiments of the game calls could be made if different orientations are desired.

In the embodiment shown, wires 44, which electrically connect switch 18 between power source 14 and motor 16, are routed along and periodically affixed to structural members of the weapon with which game call assembly 10 is used. However, it is to be understood that the game call assembly of the present invention can be alternately configured, such as, for example, with wires embedded and/or integrated into the structural members of the weapon. Similarly, switch 18 can be alternately configured as a radio-frequency, infra-red, or other type of actuation device which does not require a direct connection by wire, so long as controller 20 is also correspondingly alternately configured.

In the embodiment shown, housing 12 is described as having a first housing feature 26 configured for engaging mating threaded bores 28 of one or more weighted sections 24 and/or threaded socket 42 of bow 40. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention can be alternately and variously configured by interchanging threaded sockets with studs, and vice versa, so long as the various sections and components are able to engage and be coupled together as described.

In the embodiment shown, game call assembly 10 is coupled to a weapon via an intervening weight section 30. However, it is to be understood each of game call assemblies 10 and 100 are configured to directly coupled to and/or received within the sockets of various weapons without requiring the use of the an intervening weighted sections.

In the embodiment shown, motor 16 is configured as an electrical motor, such as, for example, a direct current motor, stepper motor, or other similar motor, which when energized is configured to rotate shaft 34 thereof in a predetermined direction. However, it is to be understood that the present invention can be alternately configured with a different type of motor, such as, for example, a spring-driven motor or pneumatic-driven motor. In the former, a user winds or tensions a spring. Actuation of switch 18 releases the spring tension which is transformed into rotational movement of the motor shaft. In the latter, a source of pressurized air, such as, for example, a carbon dioxide cartridge, air provided (i.e., blown) by a user, or other source, is supplied and provides the force to rotate the shaft.

In the embodiment shown, controller 20 is configured as an electronic controller. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention can be alternately configured with a different type of controller, such as, for example, a mechanical resettable stop, ratchet stop, other suitable means that limits rotation of the shaft. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, the type of motor and/or actuation means used is considered when selecting which type of controller is to be used.

While this invention has been described as having a preferred design, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the present invention using the general principles disclosed herein. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within the known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims. 

1. A game call assembly, comprising: a game call configured for emitting a call when inverted; a motor having a shaft, said motor rotating said shaft when energized, said game call coupled to said shaft; a power source for energizing said motor; and a switch selectively electrically connecting said power source and said motor.
 2. The game call assembly of claim 1, further comprising a housing, at least one of said motor and power source being disposed within said housing, said housing configured for mounting to an object.
 3. The game call assembly of claim 2 wherein said motor and power source are disposed within said housing, said shaft extending therefrom.
 4. The game call assembly of claim 2, further comprising at least one weight section configured for being associated with said housing.
 5. The game call assembly of claim 2, wherein said housing includes a first housing feature configured for engaging either of a corresponding feature of one or more weight sections to thereby couple said weight section to said housing and an accessory-mounting feature of a second object.
 6. The game call assembly of claim 2, wherein said housing includes a first housing feature and at least one weight-receiving feature, said first housing feature configured for engaging an accessory-mounting feature of a second object, said at least one weight-receiving feature configured for receiving a weight.
 7. The game call assembly of claim 5, wherein said second object comprises an archery bow, cross bow, firearm, and other weapon.
 8. The game call assembly of claim 7, wherein said switch is configured for mounting on said second object such that said switch is actuable by a user when in a ready-to-fire position.
 9. The game call assembly of claim 4, wherein each said at least one weight section includes a first and a second weight-section feature, said first weight-section feature for coupling said section to one of said housing and a second weight-section feature of another weight section, said second weight-section feature for coupling said section to said first weight-section feature of another weight section.
 10. The game call assembly of claim 9, wherein said first weight-section feature comprises one of a threaded stud and a threaded socket, said second weight-section feature comprises the other of a threaded stud and a threaded socket.
 11. The game call assembly of claim 1, further comprising a controller controlling the amount by which said shaft is rotated to a predetermined amount for each actuation of said switch.
 12. The game call assembly of claim 11, wherein said predetermined amount is equal to approximately 180 degrees.
 13. The game call assembly of claim 1, wherein said game call comprises a modified estrus or can-type bleat call.
 14. A weapon assembly, comprising: a weapon having an accessory-mounting feature; and a game call assembly coupled to said weapon via said accessory-mounting feature, said game call assembly including a game call configured for emitting a call when inverted, a motor having a shaft, said motor rotating said shaft when energized, said game call coupled to said shaft, a power source for energizing said motor, and a switch selectively electrically connecting said power source and said motor.
 15. The weapon assembly of claim 14, said game call assembly further comprising a housing, at least one of said motor and power source being disposed within said housing, said housing configured for mounting to an object.
 16. The weapon assembly of claim 15 wherein said motor and power source are disposed within said housing, said shaft extending therefrom.
 17. The weapon assembly of claim 15, further comprising at least one weight section configured for being associated with said housing.
 18. The weapon assembly of claim 15, wherein said housing comprises: first housing feature configured for engaging either of a corresponding feature of one or more weight sections to thereby couple said weight section to said housing and said accessory-mounting feature of said weapon.
 19. The weapon assembly of claim 15, wherein said housing includes a first housing feature and at least one weight-receiving feature, said first housing feature configured for engaging an accessory-mounting feature of a second object, said at least one weight-receiving feature configured for receiving a weight.
 20. The weapon assembly of claim 14, wherein said weapon comprises an archery bow, cross bow, firearm, and other weapon.
 21. The weapon assembly of claim 14, wherein said switch is configured for mounting on said weapon such that said switch is actuable by a user when in a ready-to-fire position.
 22. The weapon assembly of claim 17, wherein each said at least one weight section includes a first and a second weight-section feature, said first weight-section feature for coupling said section to one of said housing and a second weight-section feature of another weight section, said second weight-section feature for coupling said section to said first weight-section feature of another weight section.
 23. The weapon assembly of claim 22, wherein said first section feature comprises one of a threaded stud and a threaded socket, said second section feature comprises the other of a threaded stud and a threaded socket.
 24. The weapon assembly of claim 14, further comprising a controller controlling the amount by which said shaft is rotated to a predetermined amount for each actuation of said switch.
 25. The weapon assembly of claim 24, wherein said predetermined amount is equal to approximately 180 degrees.
 26. The weapon assembly of claim 14, wherein said game call comprises a modified estrus or can-type bleat call.
 27. A weapon stabilizer assembly, comprising: a game call configured for emitting a call when inverted; a motor having a shaft, said motor rotating said shaft when energized, said game call coupled to said shaft; a power source for energizing said motor; a housing, at least one of said motor and power source being enclosed within said housing, said housing including a first housing feature configured for engaging either of a corresponding feature of one or more weight sections to thereby couple said weight section to said housing and an accessory-mounting feature of a second object; and one or more weight sections configured for being associated with said housing.
 28. A game call assembly, comprising: means for emitting a game call, the game call intended to attract animals, said means for emitting a game call emitting the game call in response to motion of the means for emitting a game call; means for imparting motion to the means for emitting a game call; actuation means for actuating the means for imparting motion; and means for coupling the game call assembly to a second object.
 29. The game call assembly of claim 28, further comprising means for stabilizing the second object.
 30. The game call assembly of claim 28, further comprising at least one of control means and limiting means for ensuring a desired amount of movement is imparted to the means for emitting a game call upon each actuation thereof. 